Te hōtaka tukunga pūtea o Te Taiao ā-Takiwā me nga Taonga Tuku Iho o te Taiao Regional Environment and Natural Heritage (RENH) grant programme

About the Regional Environment and Natural Heritage (RENH) grant programme

This contestable grant All eligible organisations or individuals can apply. Applications are assessed through a transparent and consistent process, with final decisions made publicly. supports community-led conservation projects across Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland that:

• protect native species
• improve water quality
• help keep ecosystems A community of plants, animals and other organisms that function together as a unit along with their environment. healthy.

In 2024 we merged this grant with the Community Coordination and Facilitation (CCF) grant. This single grant programme now funds hands-on environmental work and coordination efforts that align with regional priorities to:

• protect significant region-wide ecosystems, species and habitats
• increase community involvement and build conservation group capacity
• support meaningful engagement with Māori and reflect Te Ao Māori values
• carry out work that benefits or affects a large area.

• Environment

Up to $90,000 per year.

We recommend you read the Applicant guide to the Regional Environment and Natural Heritage Grant 2025/2026.

The guide explains:

• the purpose and priorities of the RENH
• the eligibility and project criteria
• the application process and assessment criteria
• your accountability and reporting requirements if your application is successful
• the timeline for the 2025/2026 financial year.

Read 'Schedule three' of the Community Grants Policy to make sure your application complies with the policy.

The policy describes:

• the purpose of the grant and who it is aimed at
• how to qualify for regional grants
• what funding opportunities are available
• how we allocate grants. 

Workshops for applicants

We run two types of workshops to help you with your application:

• a general workshop for first-time applicants
• an advanced drop-in session where we will answer questions and explain any changes to the programme.

Note: all workshops are held on Microsoft Teams. We will let you know how to register for your choice of workshop closer to the time.

Applications are open from 14 November 2025 to 25 January 2026.

We recommend you email pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz early, before the grant round closes:

• if you have not applied for this fund before or within the last three years
• to check your application aligns with council priorities
• to request help with your application.

Regional Environment and Natural Heritage (RENH) grant programme dates

What happens after you apply

We assess all applications received. We may contact you to discuss your application during the assessment period.

We will email you to let you know the result of your application.